In the Alert Level 2 Advisory recently released by NNC CaLaBaRZon and signed by Ms. Carina Santiago, RNPC, the Regional Nutrition Clusters and Local Nutrition Clusters are requested to be on constant alert for any volcanic activity or possible danger of eruption in the locality.
The advisory also calls for the LGUs in the perimeter area to be alert, prepared and vigilant. It necessitates contingency measures to ensure all members of the community will have access to food in the event of the eruption.
The use of the Nutrition Initial Needs Assessment (NINA) is also vital. It is the detailed initial rapid assessment of the nutritional status of affected mothers and children in the areas to be covered, and will provide stakeholders dashboard for possible actions of responses.
Information Management (IM) is also expected to support the Nutrition Clusters, as it involves collection, processing, analysis and dissemination of information of members of the communities, and hence should be thoroughly understood.
In previous weeks, Taal volcano has been showing recorded increasing volcanic earthquakes, volcanic tremors and other seismic activities that made it to Alert Level 2 which means “Local to Moderate Level of Seismicity.”
Level; 2 Advisory also indicates local but unfelt earthquakes, increased bubbling in crater lake and magmatic intrusion which could eventually lead to eruption (Source: www.GOBATANGAS.com).
The broader scope of Nutrition in Emergencies as an integral approach and strategy in times of disasters and emergencies and preparedness is one of the keys for effective and immediate action. This has been illustrated in the previous year.
It is good to recall that in January 12, 2020, the Taal Volcano erupted resulting in disruptions, distractions and damages to the properties of the people in surrounding areas. However, the emergency and disaster response of the National Government Agencies, stakeholders like private sectors and even private individuals were remarkable. LGUs and neighboring regions also extended their interminable valuable help.
DOH and NNC were among the government agencies mandated to assist the communities in the evacuation centers. They also provided nutrition services to the population with high consideration to the vulnerable groups of pregnant and lactating women, infants, children and senior citizens.
Safety and protection are everybody’s concern. Let us all pray that this natural phenomenon would be averted. In monitoring the status of Taal volcano, please be updated with the news bulletin of the government agencies and the following fb sites:
https://www.facebook.com/PHIVOLCS
https://www.facebook.com/piagovph4a
https://www.facebook.com/nnc.calabarzon
https://www.facebook.com/gobatangas
By: Edward C. Paglinawan
